Casita Retazos is surrounded by almond trees, set in a peaceful valley on the protected Sierra del Hacho range. From the enclosed garden of the casita there are gentle views across the valley. Depending on the time of the year, you may see fields being ploughed with mules or oxen, almonds or olives being picked. The area is alive with wild birds, including the vivid coloured bee eaters and the somewhat comical looking hoopoes. Imperial eagles nest in the rocks of the Sierra. The open countryside around invites one to take a walk. From a stroll “around the block” to a hike of several miles. In the spring this is particularly delightful when wild flowers are abundant. Views from the top of the Sierra are magnificent. The finca is away from the hustle and bustle though not isolated, but you will need to hire a car if you plan to venture beyond the locality. Fifteen minutes by car from the fast growing pueblo of Pizarra with its many restaurants, bars and shops. (Peer in an open door and you may well find a little shop that appeared to the world to be a house!) Further afield, but within an hours drive, are the lakes at Ardales and El Chorro (where parts of Von Ryans Express was filmed). Also the El Torcal Park Nature Reserve, where the rain and wind of millions of years have formed rocks of incredible shapes. In this area you will also find the Pink Lagoon one of Europes breeding grounds of Pink Flamingos and the Fuente de Piedra Donkey Sanctuary. Also the Lobo Park where you can “howl with the wolves”! Malaga city itself is very appealing, with tree lined streets, public gardens and many historical buildings and museums as well as plenty of shops and restaurants. There are also cinemas showing films in English. Malaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and recently opened museum is a must for art lovers. Access is very easy by local train. If you fancy a day on the beach, there are fairly quiet beaches close to Malaga, with the popular beaches of Torremolinos, Benalmadena and Fuengirola just a little further on. Marbella with it’s designer shops and jet set lifestyle is about an hour from Pizarra. Further still are the beautiful cities of Granada, about 90 minutes away and Seville a bit more. Granada is home to the famous Alhambra palace, Seville offers many beautiful old buildings and one of the nicest ways to see it is by horse and carriage! The newly opened airline Clickair, now makes it possible to take a day trip from Malaga to Barcelona! Malaga airport is only 45 minutes away by car. Tea and coffee facilities are provided, and for late arrivals a welcome pack can be provided. The two bedroomed casita, sleeping 4 /5 is fully self contained and comfortably furnished. Bedroom 1 has a double bed . Bedroom 2 has twin beds but can be arranged with a further single bed if required and has a small attached bathroom containing shower,toilet,washbasin . There is air conditioning and heating in the sitting room. There is also free view satellite television, DVD and video player. There is a selection of books and games. Wifi Internet is avalible around the pool and Casita The small kitchen is equipped with fridge, combination microwave oven /grill and double electric hotplate along with kettle and toaster. There is ample crockery, glassware and cutlery. On the terrace there is a gas barbecue along with table and chairs and sun loungers. In the bathroom there is a bath with shower over, washbasin and toilet. Towels and linen are supplied and changed weekly. (please note that you will need to bring your own beach towels, or they can be bought locally very cheaply) Guests are welcome to use the owners pool, but be aware we have several dogs and they are likely to join you poolside! The property, Finca Rio Grana is an old almond farm covering about 8 acres and guests are welcome to wander. We also keep free range ducks and chickens that are fed a natural, additive free diet and dependant on the time of year eggs may be available. We also have horses